Appleton fears early recall for loanee

Michael Appleton believes Scott Allan may be deprived of a Pompey farewell.

The influential midfielder is pencilled in for the final match of his loan spell at Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

However, with the Blues’ relegation now confirmed, he may be recalled by West Brom.

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The Baggies have secured their status in the Premier League for another season.

Appleton fears they may now opt to bring back Allan to blood him in their remaining games.

Pompey also have Karim Rekik and Chris Maguire on loan.

George Thorne and Luca Scapuzzi have already returned to their parent clubs.

Now Appleton is concerned Allan will get the call to return ahead of this weekend’s season finale at the City Ground.

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The Pompey boss said: ‘I will be having a conversation with the clubs and see what the situation is about the loan players. There is a possibility they may want their players to go back.

Scott Allan would probably be my biggest worry.

‘He was the best player on the pitch on Saturday and there was a West Brom scout to see it.

‘They are safe now so may decide to call him back to give him a game.

‘I can only thank them for giving us the opportunity for letting him strut his stuff at Fratton Park.’

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Allan was the star man against Derby, with a magnificent midfield display.

The young Scot has made a big impact since joining midway through February.

He has established himself as a firm favourite among Pompey fans with his skill and energy.

Only the crossbar denied him a goal on his Fratton Park farewell on Saturday.

And Appleton was quick to praise his display.

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He added: ‘Scott was the best player on the pitch by a mile. He was magnificent – the ball seemed to stick to his feet at times.

‘The lad was really, really unlucky with the effort he had which hit the bar.

‘He must have beaten four or five players on his way into the box.’

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